In a dramatic turn of events during the Edo State 2024 elections, officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) halted vote buying at Ward 5, Eguare Primary School, Irrua, Esan Local Government Area on Saturday.

The situation unfolded shortly after voting commenced at 10:02 am, following a brief delay caused by early morning rainfall. Voters, both young and old, had turned out in large numbers despite the weather, and the area quickly became a hotspot for vote-buying activities.

Esan LG, part of the Edo Central Senatorial District with five LGAs—Esan South-East, Igueben, Esan North East, Esan West, and Esan Central—holds significant importance as it’s home to both PDP and APC candidates. As voting proceeded, party officials were spotted attempting to influence voters with monetary incentives.

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However, the arrival of EFCC officials at around 12:05 pm put an abrupt stop to the distribution of money. The presence of the anti-corruption agency prompted party representatives to quickly cease their vote-buying efforts. EFCC agents spent approximately 30 minutes monitoring the scene before leaving without making any arrests, as the voters and party agents had already composed themselves, avoiding suspicious behavior.

Despite the earlier vote-buying concerns, the voting process continued peacefully, with the BVAS machines functioning seamlessly. Security personnel ensured strict adherence to the restriction of movement order, allowing only residents with voter cards access to polling stations.